Ski Trip 2025- Sun 24th August – Friday 29th 

Mt. Hotham welcomed us with blue bird skies, and a solid blanket of snow.  This was a welcome change from the previous two years.  We knew that we had to make the most of the sun as the forecast was for blizzards in the coming days.  We grabbed our gear, met the trendy instructors, then shredded the slopes.  For some, it was the first time, and it resembled a herd of disorientated baby giraffes learning to roller-skate, for others, it was back to business.  Kyron Dare, dare by name and nature, gave a standout performance of the world’s fastest snow plough (a ski position used to slow down). For those unfamiliar with the snow plough, its effectiveness is limited to speeds approx. 8km/h and below.  

By the second day, the general goal for many was to tackle a ‘black run’, the most difficult groomed trails.  Most made it down to the bottom, however, the level of grace, style, and dignity varied greatly.  Nonetheless, everyone was stoked to be in the snow, exploring the mountain and the orchard whilst under the gaze of Feathertop Ridge. 

Thick fog, freezing weather, and wind was met on the third day. However, with this came four days of snow.  White, light, fluffy snow. Yummy, and a once-in-a-season weather event!It was great that the students got to see it. We all became instantly appreciative of goggles and thermals.  At the top of the lifts, it was a real battle trying to stay in one spot, due to the gusts. The lack of visibility was made it more challenging still, until you lost some altitude and dropped into a chute or gully.  On our way to lunch, a student accidently found himself in a boxing match with a set of rental skis.  Despite his best efforts, and a display of admirable athleticism, he came out second best and needed his knuckle stitched up. This did not dampen any spirits and he soldiered on for the rest of the trip without complaint. What a trooper.     

On the Friday morning, it was with heavy hearts that we had to return our equipment, pack our bags, and leave this winter paradise and little community that we had created.  Despite students jumping on wrong busses, and leaving fellow staff members in Wangaratta, the trip back to our island home went smoothly.

A huge thank you to the students and the way that they conducted themselves, they really represented themselves and the college to the best of their ability. Katherine in the office, the organising of logistics was exceptional and seamless from our end.  Thommo for getting the wheels in motion and making these opportunities happen and being the cool trip dad. The fellow staff members, Jackie and Neelam; and of course, the volunteers Paul and Simeron, who are selfless with their time, care, enthusiasm and guidance.  This all helped us to ensure that the students were safe and having the best experience possible.